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Taka Hayashi Interview

October 23, 2012

Last Thursday evening, Taka Hayashi presented his original artwork in ink and watercolor, as well as a preview of his Spring 13 footwear and debut apparel collection in a special trunk show at The General. Taka Hayashi’s work for Vans represents the highest level of design in the Vans collections, utilizing innovative materials and premium leathers with a sophisticated aesthetic. He is constantly pushing conventions in sneaker design, approaching footwear design almost as a sculptural practice.

Thank you to everyone who came out to the event on Thursday, and of course a very special thanks to Taka and Vans. We had a chance to sit down with Taka while he was in New York to talk about some of his inspirations and what it’s like to design for Vans. Enjoy.

DQM:
Hi Taka, we’re so excited to have your art work in store at The General and to have gotten a little sneak peek at your Spring 13 collection. Can you tell us a little bit about the inspiration for the artwork and installation for your trunk show? Is it tied to the footwear and apparel design that you presented?

TH:
The theme of my Fall 12 collection was the great outdoors. I carried this theme to my artwork. Natural elements - sky, water, earth, wind and the tree house all with a psychedelic twist.

DQM:
For this trunk show presentation, you previewed your debut apparel collection for Vans along with your Spring 13 footwear. What was it like transitioning from footwear to apparel design? Is it something you would like to do more of?

TH:
It was a natural progression for me to transition into apparel design. I’ve been wanting to explore further, beyond footwear into apparel and accessories, something I would like to continue.

DQM:
Your Spring 13 footwear collection seems to us to both strongly reflect your personal inspirations, perhaps more than ever, but also represents the next level of design and innovation for Vans. What is it like designing for such an iconic shoe brand? Are there any challenges marrying your personal aesthetic with the Vans brand?

TH:
Vans was such a huge influence growing up in Southern California, being immersed in the skate culture and wearing Vans as a kid everyday. As an adult my tastes have evolved, but I always try to strike that perfect balance between the kid in the beat up Vans & my slightly more refined adult self.

DQM:
How has skating and skate culture influenced your work over the years? Is it still an inspiration?

TH:
Yes, I got my first skateboard at age 5 in Japan, and I’ve been skating ever since. The history of skate culture is ingrained in me. It has and will continue to influence me my entire life.